Kicking To The End

Every team around the league has battles for roster spots. Sometimes, the final roster is decided by economic factors. Some players are cheaper to carry than others. If the talent level is equal, teams tend to go with the cheaper player.

We are seeing a great battle on the Pats for the punter between veteran Zoltan Mesko and rookie Ryan Allen. Mesko will be a free agent after this season and is expected to have a $1.37 million charge against the salary cap. If they cut him, he only counts for $46,800 in "dead money".

Allen was signed as an undrafted free agent from Louisiana Tech and has a cap number of $405,000. If they release him, the charge is only $1,500. He brings a very impressive resume to the NFL as the 2011 and 2012 winner of the Ray Guy Award, given to the nation's best collegiate punter.

Both have punted well in camp and games. Allen appears to kick the ball deeper, but Mesko has better hang time. Mesko is the veteran with NFL game experience. Allen has the big leg and cheaper contract.

Who will be on the opening day roster?